Connect Issues Fall 2021

CHICAGO FAMILY MAKES THEIR MARK WITH WINE AND CHOCOLATE

The past year required some re-imagination and that’s what we did – creating a new signature event, (Un)Corked, a virtual wine- tasting event that raised awareness and critical funds to support the Foundation’s programs and services. Each (Un)Corked event featured sommeliers from Napa Valley, who taught us about wines (with participants given an option to purchase the wines in advance), as well as a silent auction. The events were driven by our volunteers who shared their stories as they do at in-person events, creating a meaningful evening to both raise awareness and critical funds for the Foundation. And they were fun, as well. In Chicago, we upped the ante, creating (Un)Corked: The Chocolate Edition. James and Jessica Milburn, whose daughter Bailey has Marfan, chaired the inaugural event. “Jess has been researching ways to learn more and get involved since the first moment she thought Bailey might have Marfan,” said James. “Since that

p James and Jess Milburn with Bailey and their three younger daughters, Libby, Margo, and Dylan.

about the money raised. “Raising awareness is just as important as the financial gains of these events,” said James. “Allowing our connections and their connections to enjoy a fun evening while

time, we have made it point to try to participate in local and national events for the Foundation in order to help raise money and awareness of the condition.” Thanks to the incredible efforts of the (Un)Corked: The Chocolate Edition committee, the event far exceeded the fundraising goal, raising $100,000 for the Foundation. The Milburns played a central role, including sharing their story in a video that was shown during the evening. “Bailey was happy to have our whole family involved in the planning and video,” said James. “She is happy to know that her family is helping her and others facing similar health issues.”

learning more about Marfan and other connective tissue conditions will provide a larger impact and, therefore, stronger support of the Foundation in the future.” James and Jess are grateful for the support the Foundation pro- vides and are committed to creat- ing an even bigger in-person event in Chicago when it is safe to do so. “The Foundation leverages nationwide support to provide truly beneficial programs to the Marfan and related conditions community, including awareness, education, access to healthcare providers,

and, most importantly, general support and peer group structures for individuals and families,” said James. “This is so important to us and families like us so generating outside involvement, donations, and support means the world!”

Philanthropy has always been important to James and Jess. Since Bailey was diagnosed with Marfan, supporting the Foundation has risen to the top of their list of philanthropic priorities. And it’s not just

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